NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — A multi-year feasibility study now underway by the US Army Corps of Engineers ("Corps"), City of North Adams and Hoosic River Revival is evaluating options to modernize the Hoosic River flood risk management system in North Adams.

 

To inform this work, the City and Hoosic River Revival are seeking public input on the kinds of access and recreation opportunities that would be most meaningful to area residents. A community workshop is planned to share information about the feasibility study progress, to show examples of placemaking, and to explore the community's interests in riverside access, recreation, culture and community gathering spaces.

 

 

Modernization is intended to enhance flood protection and climate resilience, and restore river ecology displaced by the concrete flood chutes.

 

The study area encompasses the entire extent of the Hoosic River in North Adams. The study has progressed over the past year, and it is expected that a recommended modernization plan will be available by the end of 2025.

 

Local partners are working with the Corps to find ways to ensure that the modernization plan also includes opportunities for the creation of new public spaces, recreation opportunities that will connect the river to City life, and contribute to the economy.

 

This opportunity is called "placemaking" because it looks wholistically at the river and surrounding landscape, and involves the collaborative efforts of community members and stakeholders to create places that promote community health and well-being, stated a press release.